Heights Schools Consider Later Start Date For 2020-2021

CLEVELAND HEIGHTS, OH — The Heights Schools could start the next academic year later than usual.

Due to the continuing COVID-19 pandemic, the district's Calendar Committee has recommended several changes for consideration by the Heights Board of Education. If approved, the Cleveland Heights-University Heights Schools would not start instruction until Sept. 2, 2020.

The district said the later start date would "allow ample time for teacher training and additional student support."

The last day of school would be June 3 for students and June 4 for staff.

Here are some key dates from the proposed calendar:

• Aug. 17-19 — New teacher orientation
• Sept. 2 — First day of school
• Nov. 26-27 — Thanksgiving break
• Dec. 21 - Jan. 1 — Winter recess
• March 29 - April 1 — Spring break
• June 3 — Last day for students
• June 4 — Last day for staff

In total, there would be 169 in-school days during the year. Two days would be set aside for remote learning.

Ohio law mandates a 30-day public comment period before an academic calendar is changed. Heights families, staff and community members can submit comments and feedback through a Google Form online.

The proposed calendar changes will be placed on a Board of Education meeting in July for approval, the district said.

Comments and suggestions can be submitted via the Google Form found on the district's website.